Drew Doughty Shared Childhood Letter to Wayne Gretzky
The Kings defenseman posted a 1995 note he wrote to the hockey legend on Instagram.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Hockey
Los Angeles Kings veteran Drew Doughty recently shared a handwritten letter he sent to Wayne Gretzky as a five-year-old in 1995. The childhood note, which Doughty posted to Instagram, received a public reply from the hockey icon.
Why it matters
The exchange highlights the enduring connection between hockey generations and the personal history of a franchise star. It serves as a reminder of the long-standing influence of league legends on current professional players.
Doughty recorded 93 goals during his 1994-95 season with the London Red Circle Raiders. Across his NHL career, he has played 1,279 regular-season games for Los Angeles, contributing 165 total goals and 544 assists.
The players
Drew Doughty
He is a long-time defenseman for the Los Angeles Kings who was drafted second overall in 2008.
Wayne Gretzky
Widely considered one of the greatest players in NHL history, he played for the Los Angeles Kings during his career.
Kelly Hrudey
He is a former professional hockey goaltender who played for the Los Angeles Kings alongside Wayne Gretzky.
The details
In the letter dated April 18, 1995, a young Doughty asked for autographs from both Wayne Gretzky and teammate Kelly Hrudey. Doughty eventually joined the Los Angeles Kings after being selected second overall in the 2008 NHL Draft and helped the team secure Stanley Cup titles in 2012 and 2014.
Timeline
18 April 1995: Doughty wrote the letter to Wayne Gretzky.
2008: Doughty was selected in the NHL Draft.
2012: The Kings won the Stanley Cup.
2014: The Kings won the Stanley Cup.
06 October 2026: Doughty shared the letter on Instagram.
The Big Picture
This moment reflects on the long-term career of a cornerstone player who was selected during the 2008 NHL Draft. It follows the path of a professional athlete whose early fandom eventually led to him becoming a franchise leader.
Doughty's longevity with the team is highlighted by his 1,279 regular-season games played for the franchise. This career milestone underscores his role as a central figure in Los Angeles Kings history since the 2008 draft.
The takeaway
The interaction between a veteran player and a league legend illustrates the generational connection inherent in professional sports. Fans can appreciate how childhood aspirations often precede long and successful professional careers.
Further reading
For more on the team's history and current roster, explore our Los Angeles Hockey section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NDTVSports.
